Avation, the Singapore-based commercial passenger aircraft leasing company, has exercised options to acquire a further eight ATR 72-600 regional turboprops for scheduled deliveries between 2020 and 2022.

Jeff Chatfield, Avation executive chairman, noted that the company was maintaining purchase rights and price protection over a further 25 aircraft extending to December 2025. He also confirmed the company's “willingness” to potentially convert some orders and or options to the freighter version. He added that Avation is positioned as one of a few lessors with a modest number of forward positions to offer to its airline customers.

The Franco-Italian turboprop builder celebrated its 1,500th aircraft delivery — an ATR 72-600 handed over to Japan Air Commuter — in December.